Providing Health Care In The Bush
Sun Herald
Sunday August 19, 2007
AT school Andrew McKeon's strongest subjects were chemistry and biology, so pharmacy seemed a natural choice when selecting a career path.
Having grown up on a sheep and cattle station 65 kilometres north of Hillston in southern NSW, McKeon recognises the need for quality health care in the bush and is keen to work in the country when he finishes his degree.The 18-year-old is in the first year of studies at Charles Sturt University in Wagga Wagga.He gained entry via the principal's report entry program, which allowed him to secure a uni place before receiving his Higher School Certificate results. Because Wagga Wagga is four hours' drive from Hillston, McKeon has had to move away from home for his studies and lives on campus in a cottage with seven other students. Having attended boarding school for years 11 and 12, McKeon is not fazed by life away from home. "Living on campus at university is a brilliant way to meet people not necessarily doing the same subjects as you," he says. McKeon chose to study at Wagga Wagga because it was "comparatively close to home and the cost of living in the city while attending urban universities is far higher". As well as working in a large regional centre, McKeon hopes to practise overseas to broaden his experience.
© 2007 Sun Herald